Man Utd drop interest in signing of Barcelona 26-year-old defender

Barcelona could allegedly struggle to sell Samuel Umtiti during this summer’s transfer market as many interested clubs, including Manchester United, are concerned by the centre-half’s injury record.

Umtiti joined the La Liga giants from Lyon four years ago and made 83 appearances during his first two campaigns at the club.

A knee problem restricted the Frenchman to just 15 outings last term, though, while he has only featured in 11 La Liga matches this season due to injury.

The 26-year-old star continues to be linked with a transfer away from Camp Nou, but according to a recent report by AS, several interested clubs have demanded an ‘exhaustive medical examination’ of the star’s troublesome knee before committing to a deal.

The report states that the cartilage issue forces Samuel to have synovial fluid drained from the area every month, which is a concern for suitors.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner, who has been linked with Manchester United and Arsenal, still has more than three years left to run on his deal with Quique Setien’s side.

Meantime, Lyon ace and Manchester United target Rayan Cherki has revealed that he ‘dreams’ of representing La Liga giants Real Madrid in the future.

In spite of being just 16 years of age, Rayan has already made one start – away at Paris Saint-Germain – and six substitute outings across all competitions.

Although the talent is only in the early stages of his professional career, the midfielder has acknowledged that he wants to play at Los Blancos.

In an interview with his current side’s television channel, Rayan said: “My dream is to play for Real Madrid.”